A new memorial complex dedicated to Imam Bukhari has been inaugurated in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, and the site has begun receiving visitors and pilgrims following the completion of extensive renovation work. The opening ceremony was attended by the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, shortly before the Eid al-Fitr holiday, marking the project's significance in the completion of construction efforts and the development of religious and cultural infrastructure.
The mausoleum of Imam Bukhari serves as the centerpiece of the new complex, which has been designed to accommodate larger numbers of visitors and offers expanded facilities. Covering an area of 45 hectares, the complex includes a central mosque, the mausoleum, an administrative building, and a portico supported by 154 columns, in addition to four minarets each rising to a height of 75 meters and fourteen domes.
The capacity has significantly increased compared to the previous site; the old complex could accommodate up to 12,000 pilgrims daily, while the new plan allows for up to 65,000 visitors each day. The mosque itself can hold around 10,000 worshippers, while the outer courtyard can accommodate between 35,000 and 40,000 people during major religious events such as Eid prayers.
As part of the project, a museum has been created consisting of nine wings, showcasing the life of Imam Bukhari and the process of collecting and writing Hadith. The museum features exhibits about the prophets mentioned in the Quran and historical information related to the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in Mecca and Medina.
According to the complex's director, Sahobiddin Arzikulov, the project has been built to current construction standards, assuring that the facilities are designed to handle large numbers of visitors while providing prayer areas and support services. Facilities for ablution for both women and men were also designed to accommodate large crowds, and guidance services have been organized to manage the flow of pilgrims and provide information about the site.
Imported building materials were used in the construction of the complex; exterior stones were brought in from Turkey, Greece, Italy, and China, while the mausoleum was adorned with natural stones crafted by artisans from India. Approximately eighteen types of stone were used, including marble and granite, throughout the site.
Visitors noted the quality of materials and construction details when describing the complex. Abidin Ozkul from Turkey, who works in the marble sector, remarked on the evident quality of the stonework, reflecting the use of imported materials and specialized craftsmanship. Another Turkish visitor, Havva Nur, described the atmosphere of the place and its suitability as a dedicated site for Imam Bukhari.
In addition to the religious and cultural facilities, a nearby tourist center has been developed over an area of 15 hectares, featuring a four-star hotel, two three-star hotels, and 22 family guesthouses with a total capacity of 176 beds, as well as a parking lot. Communication networks have been installed, and landscaping and planting works were carried out in the surrounding areas to support visitor access.
The first Eid al-Fitr prayer was held in the new mosque following the completion of construction, and the complex is now fully open to pilgrims and visitors heading to Samarkand.